Exploring unchartered maritime careers

ZULULAND female learners were given a glimpse into the intricate workings of the national port system and a wide range of exciting maritime career opportunities offered at the Port of Richards Bay on Thursday.
This formed part of national ‘Take a Girl Child to Work Day’ hosted by Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) countrywide.
In keeping with TNPA’s commitment to supporting communities in the areas in which it operates, the girl visitors this year included a combination of employees’ children and previously disadvantaged learners from TNPA’s adopted schools.

To participate in TNPA’s programme for the day, girls had to study English, Pure Mathematics and Physical Science at high school level, as these are required for many of the mission critical roles in the maritime industry.
The Grade 10-12 pupils were selected from Lizwi High School in Mandlazini, Ndlabeyilandula High School in Mzingazi, Qhakaza High School in Empangeni, Birdswood Secondary School in Richards Bay and Gcwalulwazi High School in eShowe.
After an overview of the port system, a tour of the local port and its operations, the learners spent the day ‘shadowing’ senior staff as they went about their day.
During the 15-year period that TNPA has supported this initiative, the authority has seen a growing number of women take up key positions – not only in finance, corporate affairs and human resources, but also in operational roles such as dredge masters, tug masters and pilots – traditionally filled only by men.
‘We need highly skilled, innovative and dynamic people to take our business forward,’ said TNPA’s Chief Executive, Richard Vallihu.
‘Exposing learners to careers available in the port system are a way in which we hope to inspire young people to acquire the qualifications to enter our business, and to encourage girls to fully participate in our industry.’